Poster describing virtual Elder hours at the University of Wisconsin – Green Bay. Photo Credit: Travis Boulanger.
The University of Wisconsin-Green Bay (UWGB) offers a unique experience to students who would like to broaden their knowledge of First Nations people. However, the experience has changed since COVID-19 took hold in society.
Elder Hours is an experience students can usually attend in-person on the fourth floor of Wood Hall. During these hours, students would sit and hear stories from the Elders who would come to campus. During a typical semester (pre-COVID-19), three Elders usually take turns coming to campus to talk with students. The three Elders are usually Sue Daniels, Napos, and Georgia Burr. The number of students who attend varies on the time of day and which Elder is presenting, ranging from a few to the room being crowded.
With COVID-19, the hours are only virtual; Napos is the only Elder taking part in Elder Hours this semester. Trenton Ebel, a Democracy and Justice major at UWGB, says, “I think students are missing something since it’s only one Elder to provide information. Without the other Elders, you don’t get everyone’s perspective”.
First Nations Studies Professor J.P. Leary explains Elder Hours are an opportunity for students to ask questions and understand a more in-depth perspective from First Nations people. Professor Leary said, “Interactions are more natural when meeting in person, but virtual is better than nothing.”
Professor Leary also explained elder hours are still open for all faculty and students with Napos through this link https://us.bbcollab.com/guest/62d28cad2e3d4187a8b1d5f3b7b7e7e0 OR +1-571-392-7650PIN: 945 535 8709 in Blackboard Collaborate Ultra on Mondays and Wednesdays from 12 p.m.-2 p.m. and then again from 3:45-4:45 p.m.
Written By: Grace Merkt, Travis Boulanger, and Wynna Bonde
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